It has been reported that parts of Accra, were at the weekend hit by another earth tremor-the fourth in many months.
The last tremor was experienced in December 2018 and it was said to measure 2.6 on a Richter Scale at about 5pm.
Scientists have explained that earthquakes or tremors are natural episodes that occur when rocks beneath the ground break causing sudden releases of energy described as seismic waves.
When rocks or plates rub against each other, they cause the ground to shake. In serious situations, buildings, bridges and other structures collapse. This can result in destruction of property, death and injury to humankind.
Indeed, because it happens without warning, scientists have not been able to predict when the next earthquake or tremor would occur in any part of the world.
It is for this reason that all over the world, particularly in areas where fault lines are identified and are active and earthquakes can occur, action is taken to prepare for survival as well as minimise impact.
Because earthquakes happen suddenly, violently and without warning, identification of potential hazards ahead of time and planning in advance to reduce the dangers of serious injuries and loss of life, are important and taken serious.
Is it the case in Ghana? No!
We have known for some time now that the frequency of the earth tremor could be a signal to a major earthquake in the affected areas.
In fact, we have known many years ago that certain areas in Accra are earthquake prone areas and the Geological Services has warned severally of imminent earthquake due to the signs they have picked in those area.
According to a Senior Seismologist at the Geological Survey Authority (GSA), the signs are worrying.
Speaking in December following an earth tremor, he said, “we should be scared if these events are occurring. We have been talking about earthquakes all these while. The fault systems that give rise to these earthquakes are active and they can give a big earthquake in future which can be disastrous.”
Although the Seismologist painted a scary picture and we have no reason to doubt him, we believe that there is imminent danger ahead but there appears to be no plan to prepare for an earth quake.
There are various things that could be done through public education residents can undertake in preparedness for an earthquake.
The state also has a role to play in ensuring that emergency services and other contingency plans are in place in case a disaster occurs.
It is becoming scary as more tremors are recorded in the western part of Accra.
The Ghanaian Times does not believe that we are prepared enough and calls for an earthquake preparedness plan and for public education to be intensified as to what to do before, during and after an earthquake.
